Dave Shay, an incumbent Republican, and Democrat Matt Reeder will vie for a seat on the Ross Township board of supervisors during Tuesday’s general election.

Matt Reeder

Background: I have worked many different jobs in many different fields. From retail to sales to hotels to golf courses to resort maintenance. I feel my very divers background is an asset to me and it will be an asset to the Township.

Why you are running for office: I am running for office because all my kids are grown and I finally have the time to devote to public service. And I think it’s important that people who can do something, do something.

What is the biggest problem facing the township and how you would solve it: I’m sure there are many problems facing the township, one of which is blight. And I think the only way to solve that is “zoning with teeth.” You have to have to ability to force land owners to maintain their properties to standards or else. And there has to be an or else that’s enforceable.

Additional comments: I think it’s important for elected officials to be reminded that they work for the tax payers. And all too often people are treated poorly by those elected officials because they forget that. So I would have an open-door policy that any Rossite could utilize any time day or night to voice any concerns that may have. And I pledge to address those concerns quickly and efficiently for my entire term.

Dave Shay

Background: I am a current Ross Township supervisor, and a past member of the Ross Township planning and zoning boards. I have 35 years of business management experience. I am a graduate of Kutztown University and a lifelong resident of Monroe County.

Why are you running for office: I was elected six years ago and a township supervisor should serve all residents - not just select individuals or parties. I see every resident equally important as well as their concerns. It is important to maintain stable fiscal health for the long term and we continually need an eye on expenses. By doing this we have been able to eliminate the Ross Township property tax and relieve all property owners of an additional tax burden.

What is the biggest problem facing the township and how you would fix it: This is a tough question. Right now, we don’t really have any major problems. But we need to be vigilant to ongoing changes that may come along with land use and codes. With that said, we need to be more proactive, not reactive. This along with community input will keep our township moving in the right direction.

Additional comments: We need to provide our residents with well-maintained township roadways and a park that is available for all to enjoy. It is also important to get more residents involved in the decision-making process - by encouraging them to become members on our planning, zoning and parks boards.